Hi there! With Thanksgiving fast-approaching, I've been feeling reflective this week and decided it was time to be a little more open and vulnerable with you. Today, we're diving into a topic that hits close to home for me: navigating divorce while taking care of an infant. In today's episode I'm sharing my personal journey and offering some practical tips for being resilient during a difficult transition like divorce.
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Let's kick things off by acknowledging that divorce is rarely an easy decision to make. But sometimes, it's the only option for a healthier and happier future. In my case, I found myself facing the reality of divorce when my daughter was just six-months-old. It was a time filled with uncertainty, pain, and discovery. This wasn't always easy to talk about. But, as they say, sharing is caring, and if my story can help even just one of you, then it's worth it.
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let me first emphasize that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Fast forward to today, and I'm in a happy new chapter of life, filled with love, trust, and joy. So, with that in mind, let's roll up our sleeves and chat through navigating divorce while raising an infant.
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The first hack, and one that can never be emphasized enough, is prioritizing self-care. As moms, we tend to put ourselves last on the list of priorities. But taking care of yourself is essential, especially during such a tumultuous time. Whether it's indulging in a warm bath with homemade bath bombs, going for a walk, or simply curling up with a good book, find those moments throughout the day to practice self-care. Remember, it's not selfish; it's necessary for your well-being.
Next up, seek emotional support. Divorce stirs up a range of emotions, from empowerment and excitement to shame and failure. It's important to surround yourself with trusted friends and family members who can offer a listening ear and guidance. And don't underestimate the power of therapy. Having that neutral third-party perspective can be invaluable. So, don't hesitate to reach out for professional help.
Taking care of legal and financial matters is another crucial aspect of navigating divorce. Consult with experts in family law and financial planning to ensure your rights and interests are protected. Establishing a fair custody arrangement, determining child support, and dividing assets are all steps that need to be taken with care. Having a clear understanding of your legal and financial situation will provide stability for both you and your baby.
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Lastly, let's talk about co-parenting with positivity. I know it's easier said than done, but keeping the well-being of your child at the forefront will set the foundation for a healthier future. Strive for open communication and avoid involving your child in disputes with your ex-spouse. Creating a peaceful co-parenting environment will benefit everyone involved, especially your little one.
Remember, you are stronger than you realize. Navigating divorce is no easy feat, but by following the suggestions in this podcast, you are setting yourself and your child up for a better future.
As we wrap up today's episode and look ahead to the busy holiday season, I want to leave you with yet another reminder: take care of yourself. Stay hydrated, go for that walk, and don't forget to wash your face - as Rachel Hollis so often reminds us. 😄 You deserve all the love and happiness in the world, so make self-care a priority.
Favorite resources for listeners:
- Instacart for grocery delivery - use code KFARMER39312D to get $10 off your first order.
- Qube for managing your family spending plan - use code SECRETMOMHACKS to get two months free.
- Herbaly wellness tea for my daily cuppa.
- HOKA for moms on the run.
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Listen to these episodes next:
- Dating as a single mom: Find love again while raising your little(s) | Ep. 52
- How to find your tribe & destigmatize therapy with perinatal counselor Beth Wheeler [Part 2] | Ep. 50
- The joys of motherhood: Surviving & thriving in your first year | Ep. 44
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- Leave a ⭐️5-star⭐️ rating and review at http://www.ratethispodcast.com/secretmomhacks. Share a sentence or two with your favorite takeaway from an episode or just leave me a few words of support.❤️
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Next time we chat will be Thanksgiving Eve, so I'm off to the grocery store for more yummy ingredients! 🦃 Talk soon! 🤗
-Krista-
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